Quick heads-up: some of the links on this page are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). This small bit of income helps keep our site running.
Backpacks That Are Made in the USA
Most of the camping, backpacking and hiking backpacks out there on the market are not made in the USA. Making outdoor gear in the USA definitely ups the costs a little bit, so many companies ship their manufacturing overseas to take advantage of cheaper labor.
But, for those who really want to get their hands on some true made in the USA outdoor gear, there are still some manufacturers making gear in the USA.
GoRuck: The Tough Mudder
First up is GoRuck, a brand known for durability and military-grade toughness. Their GR1 backpack is a beast. It's designed to withstand the rigors of both urban commutes and rugged trails. It's designed to be taken rucking, but it will also double really well as a daypack for hiking. It’s not the lightest pack out there, but if you want something durable, this is it.
CiloGear: The Climber's Choice
CiloGear packs are a bit of a niche product, but if you're into climbing or mountaineering you've probably heard of this brand. The WorkSack line is incredibly versatile. It has a modular approach to packing gear that users really love. The packs are also highly customizable, so if you know exactly what you want, this company is a great choice. The material choices are great, and the manufacturing is known to be top notch.
Mountain Laurel Designs: The Ultralighter's Dream
If you want a backpack a little more suited to ultralight backpacking adventures, Mountain Laurel Designs is a great choice. Their packs are minimalist, lightweight, and very functional. These are mostly designed for thru-hikers and anyone looking to minimize the weight of their backpacking pack. They use a lot of Dyneema Composite Fabric, which is tough and light.
ULA Equipment: The Long Haul Comfort
ULA Equipment is another ultralight backpacking gear manufacturer. Their Circuit Backpack is a huge favorite among long-distance hikers and thru-hikers. Their packs strike aperfect balance between weight and comfort, providing a solid amount of space and enough support for week long adventures. The build quality is solid, and the attention to ergonomic design is noticeable.
ZPacks: The Innovator
ZPacks is another ultralight gear manufacturer, known for pushing the envelope, especially with their use of Cuben Fiber (now called Dyneema Composite Fabric). Their Arc Blast Backpack is a great piece of lightweight engineering, with a unique frame that keeps the pack away from your back, promoting airflow and reducing sweat. It's ultralight but also has plenty of features. You'll get a customizable fit and ample storage, which is a great combo.